The film delves into themes of family dynamics and the emotional bonds that reconnect parents and children.
Iran has chosen In the Arms of the Tree as its official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 97th Academy Awards. The announcement was made by the Farabi Cinema Foundation following a 10-day review process, according to the country’s English-language news service, IRNA.
A nine-member selection committee made the final decision, with In the Arms of the Tree emerging as the chosen film over two other finalists: Isatis, directed by Alireza Dehghan, and The Silent City, directed by Ahmad Bahrami.
Directed by Babak Lotfi Khajepasha, In the Arms of the Tree has previously screened at the Shanghai International TV Festival and the Fajr Film Festival.
The cast includes Maral Baniadam, Javad Ghamati, Rouhollah Zamani, Ahoura Lotfi and Rayan Lotfi, among others.
Released in 2023, the film received two Crystal Simorgh awards for Best First Film and Best Screenplay at its premiere during the 41st Fajr Film Festival. Additionally, it was named Best Film in the international section of the inaugural Havva International Film Festival in Iran that same year.
The film tells the emotionally charged story of Kimia and Farid, a couple married for 12 years whose turbulent relationship shatters the peaceful world of their children, who have known only simplicity and kindness.
